Vilnius approves €4 million integration plan for foreign residents

The Vilnius City Council has approved a three-year action plan for the integration of foreign residents, allocating €4 million for its implementation between 2026 and 2028, LRT reports.

With foreign residents now making up over 10% of the capital’s population—totaling 78,500 people—Mayor Valdas Benkunskas stated that the city must strengthen its integration policies at the municipal level. “The effectiveness of these measures will be greater if national authorities also take parallel action within their competence,” he said, citing Western European experience as evidence that both investment in integration and clear rules are necessary.

The plan focuses on encouraging language learning, providing psychological and legal support, and fostering economic, cultural, and social participation. Key areas include Lithuanian language education, access to information, employment support, public attitude shifts, and mental health reinforcement. Beyond traditional language courses, informal practice initiatives will be introduced.

To improve accessibility, the city will update the content of the International House Vilnius integration center, refine consultation standards, and expand its network of partner institutions. Currently, integration is the lowest-rated aspect among foreign residents, scoring just 3.8 out of 10 in surveys—a decline of 1.6 points over the past year.

Funding will come from the municipal and state budgets, EU funds, and contributions from Vilniaus viešasis transportas (Vilnius Public Transport). The plan also aims to promote economic integration and intercultural dialogue through social campaigns, targeted programs, and community events.

The measures follow an analysis of international best practices, recommendations, and local research, with the goal of preventing parallel communities and ensuring newcomers understand Lithuania’s cultural and social norms.